Looking to purchase my first Rolex

[I OMNI I]

Hope everyone in the forum is doing well today.

Pardon the long post, this is my first time using this forum and I don't have a lot of knowledge in watches in general. I have a few questions for a timepiece and would love to get some help.

I recently graduated from college, have a full-time job lined up, and just finished paying off my tuition. As a gift to myself, I've decided to purchase my first luxury time-piece. I've looked around a few AD's near me and out of town for a few months now, and I'm very impressed by their stainless steel professional models.

A close relative of mine has the pre-ceramic GMT pepsi, and I adore that thing. I thought I wanted the new one, but other models attracted my attention as well.

Unfortunately, I've only been able to narrow down my choice to 5. The Hulk Submariner, GMT Batman, GMT Pepsi, Daytona Ceramic (White dial), and the YM Rhodium.

I am aware that these are all hot models with extremely long waiting lists. Luckily, my parents are long time customers at a few local ADs and I've been told that I will be added to priority lists. I'm well aware that even this can warrant a few years of waiting depending on the piece.

I'm looking to get some insight from people who already own these pieces. How are you liking them, have you gotten rid of them, do you prefer one over the other, how do they fit with business/casual wear, etc.

About me: I will be wearing business casual - formal for work. I will be traveling every couple of weeks. I am very active so I want something dependable (I'm sure all are).

I'm open to other suggestions as well, so long as the price is under 20k.

I'll be looking around the forums as well regarding the pieces above.

Sorry for the long post, and thanks for letting me join this awesome community!

[JayHantz]

Welcome to the forums!

You listed some pretty awesome (and hard to get) pieces for your first Rolex.

The thing about TRF is you will get a variety of different answers based on what others thing. From “go vintage,” to “buy used,” and “nothing sings to you so wait.”

Looking at all the factors you listed, here are my three recommendations.

1) 126711 CHNR
This is an outstanding GMT that is really great in person with the rose gold TT. It’s subtle but pops in different lighting. It has the ceramic bezel and the GMT function for your travels.

2) 126710 BLRO
If you can get this at MSRP I say do it. Pepsi bezel, GMT, on a jubilee. It will look good for years.

3) 126344 Blue Dial
This Datejust is the classic Rolex. The fluted bezel with jubilee is classy in a suit or in shorts. The fluted bezel hides scratches really well and is super comfortable on the wrist.

The Hulk, IMO, is a good second Rolex. It’s green dial can be much for some and others don’t like the look dressed up.

The Daytona is classic but may not be as versatile as you’d like. If you think you’ll use the chronograph and you like the look of it, then I’d say consider it. A SubC is standard, classic Rolex but can easily be added as a second piece.

Either way, this is just what I think. This is your accomplishment, your money, and your watch. Go to the AD your parents know and ask to try any on they may have to get an idea what looks good on the wrist. And when a piece sings to you - you know that’s the one.

Happy hunting. Let us know what you get.


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[kauffee]

If you’re traveling to different time zones or working for a company where partners or clients are in different time zones than the GMT would be a useful complication. As to BLNR vs BLRO, just personal choice. I like the BLRO but I don’t think I’d want it as my only watch. The BLNR could easily be my only watch. But obviously, get the one that sings to you most.

[siempreko]

Originally Posted by JayHantz

Welcome to the forums!

You listed some pretty awesome (and hard to get) pieces for your first Rolex.

The thing about TRF is you will get a variety of different answers based on what others thing. From “go vintage,” to “buy used,” and “nothing sings to you so wait.”

Looking at all the factors you listed, here are my three recommendations.

1) 126711 CHNR
This is an outstanding GMT that is really great in person with the rose gold TT. It’s subtle but pops in different lighting. It has the ceramic bezel and the GMT function for your travels.

2) 126710 BLRO
If you can get this at MSRP I say do it. Pepsi bezel, GMT, on a jubilee. It will look good for years.

3) 126344 Blue Dial
This Datejust is the classic Rolex. The fluted bezel with jubilee is classy in a suit or in shorts. The fluted bezel hides scratches really well and is super comfortable on the wrist.

The Hulk, IMO, is a good second Rolex. It’s green dial can be much for some and others don’t like the look dressed up.

The Daytona is classic but may not be as versatile as you’d like. If you think you’ll use the chronograph and you like the look of it, then I’d say consider it. A SubC is standard, classic Rolex but can easily be added as a second piece.

Either way, this is just what I think. This is your accomplishment, your money, and your watch. Go to the AD your parents know and ask to try any on they may have to get an idea what looks good on the wrist. And when a piece sings to you - you know that’s the one.

Happy hunting. Let us know what you get.


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Solid advice all around!

Try them on... and you will know which one belongs on your wrist!

Congratulations on your accomplishments!


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[I OMNI I]

Thank you so much for the detailed response!

I'll have to check out that CHNR when I get a chance, looks great in pictures!

BLRO is one of my top choices right now. I did have a concern though about the bracelet. Any idea on how well the jubilee will hold compared to the oyster bracelet?

I was worried that fluted bezels would be too dressy, as I tend to wear shorts and a tee on weekends. Nevertheless, I'll check it out and give it a try at the AD if they have one.

I agree about the hulk, I've just never seen a green watch done so well!

I've seen the white face ceramic daytona in the flesh, and that contrast between the white face and black subdials is incredible. The only downside is that the wait will likely be the longest for this one..

Thanks again, and I'll provide updates as my search goes on :)

[dkg1616]

BLNR or go with SubC Date

[Dwight K Schrute]

can't go wrong with a sub no date or date..you can check out Davidsw' website, i think he has a few pepsi or batman in stock last time i checked, prices is well over msrp though i believe.

[I OMNI I]

I'm not really interested in purchasing in the grey market, as I'm fine with waiting for the AD to call.

I like the clean look of the no date submariner, but I've used the date function on my Seiko for years now and can't imagine living without it haha.

[Byrdguy]

Do your homework and choose the one you like.

[MARGARITATIME]

Buy the one that sings to you. It is nearly impossible to try them all on at the same time. Must have been nice to be able to do that back in tge day, but not today unfortunately. I would go Pepsi or Batman. Either one can be a daily. The hulk is a tough one watch collection. Also look at thw Subc date. It may be cliche, ut it is for a reason. It's a classic design and goes with everything.

[bp1000]

My best advice is take your time and try everything you are considering on.

It is only there and then, with it on your wrist will you decide if it’s right for you.

I buy all my watches based on pure feeling.

The only ones I’ve bought blind are the omega ck2998 (pulsometer) / seamaster 1948 / Daytona C and JLC moonphase

But my choices have been good and I’ve never sold a watch because they all mean a great deal.

[FinWatch]

Originally Posted by JayHantz

Welcome to the forums!

You listed some pretty awesome (and hard to get) pieces for your first Rolex.

The thing about TRF is you will get a variety of different answers based on what others thing. From “go vintage,” to “buy used,” and “nothing sings to you so wait.”

Looking at all the factors you listed, here are my three recommendations.

1) 126711 CHNR
This is an outstanding GMT that is really great in person with the rose gold TT. It’s subtle but pops in different lighting. It has the ceramic bezel and the GMT function for your travels.

2) 126710 BLRO
If you can get this at MSRP I say do it. Pepsi bezel, GMT, on a jubilee. It will look good for years.

3) 126344 Blue Dial
This Datejust is the classic Rolex. The fluted bezel with jubilee is classy in a suit or in shorts. The fluted bezel hides scratches really well and is super comfortable on the wrist.

The Hulk, IMO, is a good second Rolex. It’s green dial can be much for some and others don’t like the look dressed up.

The Daytona is classic but may not be as versatile as you’d like. If you think you’ll use the chronograph and you like the look of it, then I’d say consider it. A SubC is standard, classic Rolex but can easily be added as a second piece.

Either way, this is just what I think. This is your accomplishment, your money, and your watch. Go to the AD your parents know and ask to try any on they may have to get an idea what looks good on the wrist. And when a piece sings to you - you know that’s the one.

Happy hunting. Let us know what you get.


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To OP:
Welcome!
This answer above is a very good one IMO.

These advices you get ”Do your homework” are funny in a way: buy writing to this forum, in a way you wrote, is one way doing your homework!

For me it has been important to wear the watch for some time. What I feel in the shop for the brief moment is totally different than wearing the watch couple of weeks. So I have to buy the watch, wear it couple of weeks and after this process I truly know if it is a keeper or not. This is the reason why I am focusing the price and resell value aswell. You can always sell your watch if you are not happy with it.

Before buying:
YouTube is full of Rolex-review videos. I am watching those videos a lot.

Happy hunting!


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[1William]

Welcome. I would go to a Grey Dealer in your area to try on the different models and to see what you like in person. I would also decide is this a one and only or are you going to have a collection. If more than a one watch guy and will buy multiple watches then the research possibilities are endless. A lot is out there on how to do it but it should be fun. If you go with the land, sea, air collection, which is strong in my opinion, then I would also go with classics. Start where you want but I would look at the Classic Speedmaster from Omega. Can be had for less than 5k on a bracelet and is a very desirable watch. It also looks great on a NATO or leather for a trade out. This watch could also tide you over while you wait on an AD to deliver a sought after Rolex. The next is a Submariner. I prefer a ND-C, 114060, a classic with a clean an uncluttered dial and the amazing Glidelock clasp. I never understand the discussion of using a date on a watch. If I knew the date yesterday then I know the date today but some prefer it. My last would be a GMT of some type and you will have to decide. If you went Omega Speedmaster, Rolex Submariner C-ND and a Tudor Black Bay GMT you could come in under 20K and have a nice collection. Good luck.

[brandrea]

For 20k you could buy a DJ41 and a Sub no date. That’d be something to think about

[Ravager135]

Of your suggestions, either GMT-Master II will work well. Practically, all you really need is a Datejust.

[AK797]

I'd buy the YM blue or rhodium now and then get on lists for all the usual hype models.

[Crimson85]

Based on availability and it being your only watch for a while, I would go BLNR as it easily can be dressed up or down and is very versatile. Just my .2

[dafuture]

Just my .02:

With a first watch, my thought is always to pick something that can be worn in any situation. I passed on the Sub because I felt like they were everywhere, but my Explorer I has been a fantastic piece since I've owned it. Since I'd guess you'll be in an office environment, I'd skip anything with too flashy or colorful. That eliminates the Hulk and Pepsi, even though I love both.

Out of the remaining choices, I'm partial to the Daytona. The YM is nice as well, though the bezel just isn't my thing personally. However, that will definitely be the easiest of the bunch to get your hands on. The BLNR is very nice as well, though I personally feel the blue limits versatility (which is a big factor for me when I pick watches). The only other watch I'd throw out for you is a GMT LN (black with green GMT hand). It flies under the radar a bit more and leaves you room to add a more colorful piece later on. It's one of my personal favorites and looks good with everything.

Just for your reference, I'm 24 and work in Finance in NYC.

[watchwatcher]

You should be able to get the YM now.

And by the time the wait is up for one of the others, then you'll be ready for #2.

[op90no2]

Originally Posted by I OMNI I

I recently graduated from college, have a full-time job lined up, and just finished paying off my tuition. As a gift to myself, I've decided to purchase my first luxury time-piece.

Here's some very good advice you don't want to hear.

When I graduated from college the very first thing I did was go out and buy myself a brand-new BMW motorcycle. I spent the next ten years buying and selling expensive bikes. It didn't really make me that happy and I ended up with nothing left to look forward to, having owned all the best models by the time I was thirty. I would have been much, much, MUCH better off saving and investing that money.

The way the economy is shaping up there's no guarantee you're going to stay employed. You have (hopefully) many years ahead of you to slowly indulge your consumptive fantasies. Start saving aggressively and you will laugh in joy and relief thirty years from now when you check the balance in your retirement account.

This is only one point of view and others will disagree. But the option needs to be aired.

Edit: I guarantee you, if you buy your Rolex now you will enjoy it. But not as much as you anticipate. And a month or so after, you will start looking to buy your second, and your third. You have been warned.

Edit: Because I'm a glutton for punishment, I've gonna dig myself in even deeper now. There are established rules grown-ups use for weighing discretionary purchase decisions. Do you have at least six months salary in savings? Do you have a retirement account? If so, how much are you contributing to it? Do you have any debt (e.g, car loan)? What are your monthly income and expenses? I will argue that you have no business buying a $20k watch until you have your base finances in order. If by chance you come from a wealthy family and your parents gifted you with a large nest egg to get started, all the more reason to stash that money. The only exception, IMHO, is if you and your family are so rich that saving just doesn't matter.